Preterm Labor

Labor beginning before the end of the 38th week of pregnancy is called preterm labor.

What Causes Preterm Labor?
Preterm labor can be associated with uterine abnormalities (such as a "double uterus"), multiple pregnancies, problems with high blood pressure, and infections of the uterus or amniotic fluid. About 50% of the time we do not know what has caused labor to begin early. Research continues to be conducted in this area.

Early Signs of Preterm Labor

• Constant dull, low backache
• Mild menstrual-like cramping, with or without diarrhea
• Contractions, or uterine tightening, which are regular - they may be painless
• Lower abdominal pressure
• Vaginal bleeding
• A change in the type of vaginal discharge or an increase in the amount
• Membranes rupture (bag of waters breaks)

If You Think You are in Preterm Labor

• Lie down on your left side and drink two to three glasses of water.
• If the contractions are closer together than ten minutes, call your doctor immediately.
• If you have more than five contractions in an hour, or if the above signs of preterm labor do not go away, call your doctor.
• If you have had very short labors in the past, call sooner, do not delay.

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